India's PM Modi to visit Israel as genocidal war continues in Gaza
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to travel to Israel for his second official visit, highlighting the growing strategic partnership between the two countries even as the war in Gaza continues.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the planned visit, describing relations between the two nations as a “tremendous alliance” and saying the leaders would discuss expanding cooperation in several sectors, including trade, technology, defence and agriculture.
India and Israel have strengthened ties significantly during Modi’s tenure, particularly in security cooperation, defence procurement and innovation. India is one of Israel’s major defence customers, while Israeli technology firms have increased their presence in the Indian market.
Economic cooperation has also expanded in recent years. During a visit to New Delhi last year by Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, the two countries signed an investment agreement aimed at boosting bilateral trade and encouraging joint ventures.
Official figures show that trade between India and Israel reached about $3.9 billion in 2024, while two-way investments are estimated at roughly $800 million. Both sides are exploring further collaboration in renewable energy, water management, digital technologies and start-up financing.
Modi’s visit comes as Israel continues its military campaign in Gaza following the outbreak of the conflict in October 2023. According to Gaza health authorities, more than 72,000 people have been killed and over 171,000 injured during the fighting.
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